India weighs wider FDI access for commercial crops to strengthen horticulture supply chains

The government is considering expanded foreign-investment access for commercial crops, including bananas, to draw capital into farm technology, processing, cold chains and distribution. The move aligns with India’s goal of lifting agriculture exports to $100 billion by 2030.

— Source publishedSun, 6 Sept, 2026, 17:50 IST·First seen Sun, 6 Sept, 2026, 18:05 IST·Source Financial Express · BrandWagon

What happened

Government of India · India is considering wider FDI access for commercial crops, including bananas, to attract farm technology, processing and distribution

Key facts

  • 100% FDI currently allowed in specified plantation sectors
  • India agriculture exports: $53 billion in 2025-26
  • Agriculture-export target: $100 billion by 2030
  • Banana exports: $377.5 million in 2024-25
  • Banana-export target: $1 billion
  • Plantation-sector FDI: $239.23 million from April 2000 to March 2026
  • Plantation-sector FDI in 2025-26: $10.84 million

Why this matters

Food, grocery and supply-chain companies should assess joint ventures or strategic stakes in horticulture sourcing, cold storage and processing platforms before foreign capital intensifies competition for scaled assets.